Common Name: alder
Scientific Name: Alnus rubra
Category: Unique tree
Comments: In Abingdon, Virginia, to left of bridge at very beginning of Virginia Creeper Trail as you start out for Damascus, Virginia, there is an enormous alder. I think of this tree as a smaller tree usually growing on a stream bank that eventually erodes and so goes the tree. Somehow, this tree has survived the stream's obvious fluctuations to have a huge trunk, and its usual sprawling branches over the small streamand reaching the bridge railing. Its setting, at the beginning of the wonderful Virginia Creeper Trail seems like a great send-off from the people of Abingdon for the rest of your trip along this friendly trail.
Dendrology Notes: This is likely misidentified as an alder. Native alders do not attain tree size. Alnus rubra is a west coast tree, and is not commonly planted in Virginia. If it is an alder, it could be Alnus glutinosa, which is occasionally planted.
No picture has been submitted.
Best time to photograph: Noontime? Shady spot. sorry only had bad cellphone photo..
Nominator: Rebecca F. Samawicz
This tree is not on public or publicly accessible property. The owner's name, address, and the exact location of the tree are not displayed to protect the privacy of these individuals. If you are the owner and wish to make this information public, please let us know.
County/City: Washington